Missouri gas prices surge 33 cents, topping $3 per gallon
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
Missouri drivers are seeing a sharp jump at the pump as average gas prices surged nearly 33 cents per gallon over the past week, reaching $3.01 per gallon statewide.
According to GasBuddy's survey of nearly 4,000 stations across the Show-Me State, the steep rise marks a significant month‑over‑month increase. Gas costs about 43 cents more per gallon than it did a month ago, and 16 cents more than the same time last year.
The rapid price hike is tied to rising global tensions, according to Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. He says that gasoline prices are “surging at one of the fastest rates in years” following U.S. strikes on Iran and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil transit route.
Oil prices surpassed $100 per barrel over the weekend amid ongoing attacks across the Middle East, prompting fuel markets to "rapidly recalibrate" to the threat of prolonged supply disruptions.
Costs are not rising because of low supply, though. U.S. oil comes from domestic production, Canada, and even Missouri. Prices increase because crude oil is traded globally using U.S. dollars.
“As a result, gasoline prices in many states could climb another 20 to 50 cents per gallon this week,” De Haan warned in a news release.
Diesel could rise even more dramatically—potentially 35 to 75 cents per gallon. The national average for diesel -- used to transport goods that end up on store shelves -- jumped nearly 86 cents in the past week to $4.59 per gallon.
Nationwide, gas prices climbed even more sharply in Missouri. Over the past week, gas rose about 51 cents per gallon, now sitting at $3.45 nationwide. That's up about 54 cents compared to last month and 41 cents from a year ago, GasBuddy reports.
It is worth noting that a large gap has been reported between the cheapest and most expensive gas stations. GasBuddy reports wide price swings across Missouri. The lowest price recorded on Sunday was $2.37, while the highest hit $3.59, a $1.22 difference per gallon.
While the outlook remains uncertain as the U.S./Israeli war with Iran continues, one thing is clear: drivers are already feeling the immediate effects. Experts caution that gas prices may not stabilize anytime soon.
Check back for updates or tune in to ABC 17 News at 6 p.m. for the story.
